With the sea, harbour, and river on all sides, the Eastern Bay of Plenty is an ideal spot for a water-based adventure weekend. Whether you’re into surfing, fishing, or stand-up paddle boarding, this little slice of underwater heaven has something for every ocean-lover.
Day one
Morning
Start your day in the sea, with a surf at Ōhope’s famous West End. Ideal for surfers of all ages and stages – from beginners to seasoned pros – West End is a hugely popular spot to catch a break. And if you’re a first-timer, or just keen to level-up your surf skills, make time for a lesson at Salt Spray Surf School.
Next up, retreat to Moxi Café. A cosy corner of Ōhope, the funky eatery has made its home in a series of shipping containers, complete with outdoor seating that soaks up the summer sun. Warm up post-surf with a coffee, and take your pick from their scrummy brunch menu.
Midday
A visit to Ōhope wouldn’t be complete without walking the coastal section of Ngā Tapuwae o Toi. Take in the gorgeous cliff-top views, ancient pā sites, and lush native bush. The Toi track can be broken down into sections, so it can suit a range of fitness levels. Please also note, the track has experienced a slip between West End, Ōhope to Ōtarawairere Bay, so Ōtarawairere Bay can only be accessed via the Whakatāne end of the track, or by driving and parking at Ōtarawairere Road and walking down the track between 115 & 117 Ōtarawairere Road.
Pack a picnic, and make a pit-stop for lunch and a swim at the scenic and secluded Ōtarawairere Beach. Just keep in mind that Ōtarawairere isn’t accessible at high tide, so be sure to work your walk (and your picnic) around the tide times.
Evening
Finish up day one in style, with a sunset Stand-Up Paddle Board (SUP) session. Hire the gear you need from SUP Ōhope with VMAC Rides, and head paddle-first into the smooth and tranquil waters of Ōhiwa Harbour.
Finally, settle in for a delicious Mexican dinner at Ōhope hotspot, Cadera. Chill out in the restaurant’s laid-back fiesta atmosphere, grab a chimichanga, and raise a margarita to a day well spent by the beach.
Day two
Morning
Spend your morning making some new sea-dwelling friends, with a Diveworks Dolphin and Seal Encounter. Over the warmer months, the Eastern Bay plays host to thousands of playful dolphins and seals. Head out with the experienced Diveworks Charters team, and get to know these beautiful creatures close-up and personal.
Midday
Wind down after a thrilling morning under the sea, with lunch from L'Epicerie Larder on Commerce Street. The Larder is Whakatāne’s home of authentic French fare. The café bakes its own bread, hand-makes its own pastries, and roasts its own coffee on-site. Fill up on a delicious lunch and a nice, strong coffee.
Once your lunch has settled, head back out onto the water with KG Kayaks. They offer a fantastic way to explore Ohakana and Uretara Islands within Ōhiwa Harbour. Hire the gear you need and venture out on your own, or opt for an organised tour with a friendly local guide.
Evening
End day two of your ocean adventure with dinner at Roquette. Just opposite the river in Whakatāne town, Roquette is an ode to contemporary and delicious dining.
Day three
Morning
Round out your ocean-lovers weekend with a spot of fishing. Rated one of New Zealand’s best fishing destinations, the summer months bring in the yellowfin, skipjack and albacore tuna – while snapper and hapuka can be found along the off-shore reefs. Head out onto the water with one of Whakatāne’s many fantastic charter companies, and see what’s biting.
Or if you’d rather cruise and shuck an oyster, rather then catch fish, pay a visit to Tio Ōhiwa Oyster Farm, on the beautiful Ōhiwa Harbour. The cruise takes one hour and is timed to the tide, currently tours are running at 1030am and 1pm. Enjoy a history tour of the surrounding area, an interactive shucking experience and complimentary meal and mineral water.
Midday
Wind down from the morning’s fishing with lunch at Javaman or Café Awa. Javaman on The Strand serves up hearty food and coffee with soul. Try the loaded curly fries, or the Asian-inspired pulled pork sub. Or grab an outdoor table at Café Awa, and feast on a Grilled Halloumi Stack or creamy Mushroom Risotto.
Evening
Head over the hill to Ōhope, and relax into the evening with a leisurely stroll along the beach. With 11km of white sands to explore, and family-friendly waves lapping at the sands, it’s the perfect place to watch the sun setting past Moutohorā Island.
Finally, end your stay with dinner over the water at the harbourside Ōhope gem, Fisherman’s Wharf. Fabulous food, fantastic views, and friendly locals. What better way to finish off your stay in this ocean lover’s paradise.
